Evaluation of the Parallel Rural Community Curriculum at Flinders University, South Australia: Lessons learnt for Africa

Objectives. To review data collected during an evaluation of the Flinders University Parallel Rural Community Curriculum (PRCC) in order to reflect on its relevance for medical education in Africa. Setting. The PRCC offers a community-based longitudinal curriculum as an alternative for students in their pre-final year of medical training. Design. Individual and focus group interviews were conducted with students, staff, health service managers, preceptors and community members. Results. Students are exposed to comprehensive, holistic, relationship-based care of patients, with a graded increase in responsibility. Students have varying experience at different sites, yet achieve the same outcomes. There is a strong partnership with the health service. Conclusions. The principle of balancing sound education and exposure to a variety of contexts, including longitudinal community-based attachments, deserves consideration by medical educators in Africa.